Three fatal accidents over the past two days have tragically increased Fiji’s national road death toll to 52, up by 10 from the same time last year. The incidents involved a variety of circumstances but shared the common factor of resulting in loss of life and ongoing police investigations.
The first accident occurred on the night of September 26 near Vitogo, Lautoka, along the Kings Road. A 47-year-old passenger lost her life when the car she was in, driven by a 27-year-old, collided with a truck during an overtaking maneuver. The vehicle swerved off the road upon impact, leading to her fatal injuries.
On September 27, a separate tragedy unfolded in Navola, Korolevu, Sigatoka. A 10-year-old girl died after a vehicle, driven by her father and carrying four other passengers, went off the road and hit a post. The father and other passengers are receiving medical attention at Sigatoka Hospital.
A third incident, an alleged hit-and-run, took place in Suva, in which a woman in her 30s was struck while crossing Stinson Parade. The driver did not stop, and police are actively searching for the suspect. The woman succumbed to her injuries upon arrival at CWM Hospital.
These incidents add to the multiple road safety concerns that have been echoed in previous similar tragic occurrences across Fiji. With the death toll rising above figures from the previous year, there is a renewed emphasis on road safety measures and responsible driving. Authorities have continually highlighted reckless driving and speeding as significant contributors to such incidents.
Fiji Police reiterated their call for public cooperation in adhering to traffic regulations and reporting violations. There is hope that community engagement, combined with awareness campaigns, can help reverse the trend of road fatalities, as past efforts have shown potential for positive impact.
Each loss is a poignant reminder of the critical importance of road safety. It presents an opportunity for families and communities to advocate for strict adherence to traffic laws, aiming to prevent further tragedies through shared responsibility and increased awareness.